Applying for jobs effectively is key. How extensively do you read job descriptions? I hope you’re not reading every word because it’s losing you traction.
Example shown here is a typical long requisition from a big 4 firm where there’s a lot to read and consider. As I continue to advocate, it’s about three things when applying for jobs effectively:
1) Quality
2) ROI (return on investment)
3) Scale
So, as you’re going about your job search, is there a lot of value gained from reading every single word of every job description? Not in my opinion. Remember, it’s about applying for jobs effectively.
Is there value in questioning whether or not you are the perfect fit and/or have a shot? Not in my opinion.
Stop thinking so hard. Top tips to consider when reading these (sometimes very long) job descriptions that are contributing to your job search fatigue:
1) Read the requisition at a 50,000-foot view. Are you generally interested, and does it appear to fit your requirements – at a high level? Give it a shot. Remember the name of the game is “yes”, not “I’m not sure” Get it done.
2) Apply with quality baseline documents. I will always advocate for this. Applying on a rapid-fire approach won’t mean anything if you’re throwing out garbage. Quality first.
3) Diversify. We all know the rule of “don’t put your eggs in one basket”. Same rules apply here.
4) Automate as much of this process as you can. Identify where those automations exist and leverage it.
5) Have fun! The process is exhausting and you’re going to get rejected (this is expected). Don’t get down in the dumps when it happens – Embrace it! This is a process, and you can do it!
Leverage these tools on your search and you’ll start seeing results in no time.